The Cultural Heritage Dress of Hami Shines at the Shanghai TV Festival
A Dazzling Display of Hami's Cultural Heritage at the Shanghai TV Festival
On June 30, 2025, during the prestigious Magnolia Awards at the 30th Shanghai TV Festival, actress Mukkadas Kurban stole the spotlight in a breathtaking Uyghur embroidered dress, representing the vibrant cultural legacy of Hami, Xinjiang. This striking outfit not only showcased the exquisite craftsmanship of Uyghur embroidery but also served as a vivid representation of the intangible cultural heritage of Hami on a global scale.
The Dress: A Masterpiece of Embroidery
Designed by Kader Rahman, a cultural heir of the Uyghur embroidery traditions, the dress featured intricately embroidered peonies that appeared almost lifelike. Using traditional techniques, Rahman painstakingly created a three-dimensional floral display on sheer fabric, bringing the beauty of nature to life in a wearable form.
To elevate this masterpiece further, the young designer Shuting QIU from the renowned SHUTING QIU brand artfully blended Hami’s embroidery techniques with those of Suzhou silk craftsmanship. The result was a timeless garment that bridged different cultural heritages, creating a visual and emotional impact that resonated deeply with the audience.
A Personal Connection to Heritage
"Wearing a millennium of Hami's cultural heritage with every step on that red carpet filled me with immense pride," shared Mukkadas Kurban during the event. "To present this invaluable treasure of intangible heritage to the world was profoundly moving." Her words echoed the sentiments of many who have been touched by the rich cultural tapestry that Hami represents.
The City of Hami: A Cultural and Historical Hub
Hami, known for its deep historical roots, serves as a strategic national base for transforming coal into oil and gas, and it stands as an integrated center for energy production. However, beyond its economic significance, Hami is a city steeped in the historical narratives of the ancient Silk Road. The ancient Barkol city and the willow trees of Zuo Zongtang tell stories that span thousands of years, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past that shaped this region. Nature's wonders, from the mystical DaHaiDao to the diverse landscapes of the eastern Tianshan mountains, leave travelers in awe.
Festival of Sweetness: An Invitation to the World
As the city basks in the spotlight, Hami looks forward to celebrating its 19th Hami Melon Festival on July 11, 2025. The festival invites a global audience to indulge in its signature melons, prized for their remarkable sweetness that can reach up to 22° Brix. This event not only showcases Hami’s agricultural heritage but also its rich cultural offerings, making it a unique destination on the Silk Road.
Conclusion
The stunning display of Hami's embroidered dress at the Shanghai TV Festival exemplifies the city’s commitment to preserving and promoting its heritage. It serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural identity in an increasingly globalized world, encouraging others to appreciate and celebrate the diverse histories that shape our societies today.